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Kelvin Ernewein

E4C strongly believes that one person can make a difference in our community. Kelvin is one such person.

Kelvin has been E4C’s Facility Manager for 15 years, with responsibilities for maintenance and landlord duties. From the start he was recognized as reliable, caring, and someone who would always get the job done.

Kelvin is a strong advocate for the homeless. He has been instrumental in providing long-term affordable housing for women who have been street involved, or who are struggling with addictions and mental illness. Known for tremendous patience and compassion in giving his tenants second, third and fourth chances, Kelvin works with his tenants to overcome problems so that they do not lose their housing.

A longtime resident of Edmonton, Kelvin also volunteers with his neighbourhood community league.

Jim Klingle

Jim’s natural ability to see strength and hope in difficult situations is one of his most endearing qualities.

Upon graduation from the University of Alberta, Jim worked seven years for the provincial government, followed by six years as a management consultant. He and his wife Wendy then started their own business, Emerging Directions Consulting Ltd. For the past ten years Jim has provided planning, research, and evaluation services to government and not-for-profit organizations such as the Community Initiative Against Family Violence and the Today Family Violence Help Centre.

Jim has served as a volunteer with the Support Network and Connect Society, and currently volunteers on the board of the Terra Association.

A triathlete, Jim lives in Edmonton with his wife Wendy. He has two daughters, Kristen and Francesca.

Randy Lee

This is a man who has experienced difficult times himself and provides a role model for all the men he meets that there is hope for a brighter future.

Randy has been a registered volunteer with the Edmonton Community Services for eighteen years. He has volunteered at the Glengarry Community Services branch for many years, where he provides group leadership for Men’s Talk and Do groups, enabling the men to focus on personal development and relationships. With his background as a personal trainer, Randy encourages a healthy lifestyle as a way of promoting positive mental health. Randy is also a volunteer for the Alberta Rainbow Society for chronically and terminally ill children.

Randy has worked as a strength and conditioning instructor at the YMCA for the last eleven years.

Dean McKellar

Dean is well known for his work with men, his advocacy, and his connections in the community…

Dean, a community development social worker, has worked for the City of Edmonton Community Service for 19 years. He is one of the pioneers in the field of promoting working with men, encouraging them to be healthy individuals who are also caring and respectful towards their families and communities. He reintroduced weekend workshops to help men who need guidance in strengthening their relationships with their spouses, partners, and families, and is a leader in the practice of monthly/quarterly teleconferences that connect professionals throughout the province dealing in men’s issues. Dean also serves a leadership role with Disaster Social Services.

A dedicated husband and father, Dean and his wife Erla have two children, Rachel and Graham.

Jim Morrissey

He has walked with me in my journey of healing, from sexual exploitation and addiction, into a life of freedom and happiness.

Jim Morrissey has worked with Edmonton Police Services for 31 years, and currently serves as Senior Detective in the Vice Section. He is highly committed to the responsibilities of this position, where he works to heighten awareness of the plight of young women on the streets, to provide ways for these women to escape their dangerous ways, and to bring those who prey on the vulnerable to justice.

He also works to help youth that have been identified under the Protection of Sexually Exploited Children Act, and is a frequent speaker at the Citizens’ Police Academy, at the Prostitution Offender’s Program, and in public education sessions.

Roger Nelson

The motto of the Strathmore StoreFront School is ‘Choose Honour’ and no one better exemplifies this than Roger Nelson.

Roger graduated from the University of Alberta and has been teaching since 1976. He also served as a member of Strathmore Town Council for fifteen years.

In 2000 Roger transferred to the Strathmore StoreFront School, an outreach school for at-risk youth. There he worked with his wife Denise to educate students not able to attend mainstream schools due to abuse, addiction, pregnancy, or other difficulties. He has served as principal of the school for the last seven years. Roger brings together social services, health services, police, church groups, volunteers, the Food Bank and various funding agencies to provide a supportive environment for his students.

Roger and Denise five children, Katlyn, Jamie, Don, Joe and Sultan.

Art Noble

If you need a helping hand, Art is always there.

Art was born in Smithers, B.C. and grew up in Saskatchewan and North Edmonton. He married his wife Ann in 1958 and moved to “the farm” near Onoway in 1968. They raised three daughters and a son, as well as opening their home to foster children for fifteen years.

Retired since 2000, Art serves as president of the Onoway Hall Board and the Onoway Heritage Society. Art and Ann are directors at the Onoway Food Bank where they pack food hampers. Art worked 22 casinos in the last two years, is a member of the Golden Club, the Onoway Fish and Game Association, the Masons, is active in his church, and volunteered at the World (2001) and Masters (2005) Track and Field Championships.

Richard Ouellet

Although Richard has been very successful in his career, he has never lost his connection to the front line…

Richard graduated from Queen’s and the University of Toronto before coming to Edmonton in 1981. The focus of his 31-year career in social work has been in the area of child protection, where he has been a front line worker, casework supervisor, manager, and Executive Manager with the Edmonton and Area Child and Family Services Authority.

Richard is currently the Director of the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act, reporting to the Assistant Deputy Minister. He works to ensure fair and reasonable solutions are developed through legislation, policy and practice.

Richard and his wife Val have two children, Stefan and Andrea. He is active in a number of sports, and coaches his wife and daughter in soccer.

John Ratcliff

John doesn’t sit back and wait for someone else to make the world a better place.

John served 34 years with the Edmonton Police Service, and currently works as Assistant Director for the Alberta Relationship Threat Management Assessment Initiative. He is a board member with the Alberta Conflict Transformation Society, is involved in the New Canadian Centre, volunteers with the Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton, and works with difficult students in Edmonton Public Schools. He has coached the Kids of Steel Triathlon, and the St. Albert Special Olympics floor hockey team for eleven years. He also collects clothing and furniture for the needy in the inner city.

Past awards include the Kiwanis Club Top Cop Award (2005), the Governor General’s Award of Merit (2005), Volunteer Citizen of the Year for St. Albert (2006), and the EPS Award of Valour (2008).

Frank Rossi

He gives new immigrants advice that he wishes he had when he arrived as a young man, with nothing more than a suitcase full of dreams…

Frank Rossi arrived in Canada from his native Italy in 1960 at the age of 23. He settled in Edmonton and worked for Stelco for thirty years.

Over the years, Frank made numerous contributions to his community. He worked behind the scenes of many community organizations, helped to organize many events to promote Italian culture in Edmonton, and worked to promote soccer at the amateur level.

Frank is now 72 and “retired” but people who know him say he hasn’t slowed down a bit. He volunteers at the Italian Centre every day where he mentors new employees and is always ready to lend a helping hand.

Dr. Brent Saik and His Hockey Friends

I don’t mind going, but the kids… When my time is up, do as much as you can for the kids at the Cross.

Brent Saik took his father’s dying words to heart. In 2003 Brent and his friends organized their first ‘World’s Longest Hockey Game,’ in Brent’s back yard near Sherwood Park. It lasted 82 hours, and raised $130 000 for cancer research. In 2004, cancer claimed Brent’s wife, Susan, which led to a second game in 2005, of 240 hours, followed by a third, in 2008, of 241 hours. In total, the three games raised almost a million dollars for Pediatric Cancer Research at the Cross Cancer Institute.

Brent works as an optometrist in Sherwood Park, where he lives on an acreage with his daughter Angelica.

Dr. Wayne Shillington

As a young idealistic educator in the 1970’s, Wayne Shillington had a dream to change the world…

Dr. Shillington graduated from the University of Saskatchewan in 1970. He moved to Alberta in 1975 as program coordinator for Lakeland College. He is currently President and CEO of NorQuest College, a recognized leader in providing practical, relevant career training for the community at large, as well as for those facing unique challenges in getting an education. Through the Rachel’s Hope Bursary, in partnership with PAAFE, NorQuest offers a program for women trying to break free from life as sex-trade workers, a program with a 70% completion rate.

Wayne serves as a volunteer with the Hope Foundation, the Riverview Rotary Club, Vibrant Communities of Edmonton, and is presently Chair of the United Way for the Capital Region.

Peter Smyth

The words and actions of children, youth and families are the best gauge of Peter’s outstanding practice.

As a strong advocate for troubled youth, Peter has had a positive influence on many young people’s lives over the years. He is currently supervisor for Children and Youth Services, Region 6 High-Risk Youth Unit, and a member of the Steering Committee for the High Risk Youth Initiative. He was instrumental in the development of both the High Risk Youth Multi-Disciplinary Consultation Team and the Old Strathcona Youth Society, and serves on the board of the latter. He is also a board member of the Old Strathcona Co-op.

Compassionate, dedicated, and knowledgeable, Peter is able to use strong connections to individuals and other organizations in order to expand services offered to children.

Rob Wells

Rob is possessed of a compassionate and thoughtful heart as well as an activist spirit.

Rob has a lengthy involvement with the City of Edmonton’s Men’s Services. He volunteers at the “Men & Relationships” weekend and the “Men Without Hats” support groups as well as facilitates the “Gay Men’s Support Group.” He mentors men dealing with difficult issues such as relationship problems, job loss, addictions, depression, isolation, anger, self acceptance, and sexual orientation. His philosophy of helping others to develop a sense of personal dignity by appreciating their own self-worth and, by extension, the worth of others, has affected the lives of hundreds of men in a constructive, caring way.
 
Rob is also a strong advocate of social justice, and has been active in the promotion of human rights causes.

“Rob is possessed of a compassionate and thoughtful heart as well as an activist spirit.”

Jeffrey Bisanz

Jeffrey Bisanz is the Director of the Community-University Partnership for the Study of Children, Youth, and Families (CUP) and a Professor of Psychology at the University of Alberta. Guided by his beliefs regarding the value of rigorous academic research, the importance of community, and the need for people to be meaningful involved in decisions that affect them, Jeffrey has fostered the development of several community-university research initiatives that improve educational programming, early childhood developmental screening, service integration for low-income families, and programming for at-risk youth. Jeffrey also shows his dedication to community betterment through his participation in numerous community events, committees, and boards. Jeffrey inspires his university and community colleagues, students, and neighbors with his keen insights, thoughtful approach, humility, honesty, openness, and ability to “respectfully challenge others to do their best – in all things.”

Leo Campos

Leo Campos came to Canada from Chile and has a deep passion for building supportive networks within and between the diverse populations of Edmonton. He works tirelessly to make our city a truly welcoming and vibrant community and has dedicated himself to developing initiatives that cultivate the contributions of immigrant men within and beyond the Capital Region. Examples of his many associations are the Multicultural Health Brokers Cooperative and the Las Americas Housing Cooperative. Leo is described as a loving and gentle individual who champions social justice, equality, and dignity for all individuals. For many years he has run the Community Networks Group which is a web-based forum for people to share information about programs, events, and opportunities in and around Edmonton.

Mark Cherrington

Mark Cherrington is well known by colleagues in youth-serving organizations as a selfless, uplifting, and trustworthy person who is passionate about providing young offenders and vulnerable youth with transformative opportunities for positive futures. As a youth court worker with the Youth Criminal Defense Office, Mark supports, engages, and mentors at-risk youth through his leadership and participation in a variety of creative initiatives such as the Youth Restorative Action Project (YRAP), an alternative to traditional punitive justice that allows the sentences of young offenders to be decided by a panel of youth. In addition, as the creator and developer of Youth Menace, a youth-hosted radio program on CJSR, Mark has both given voice to and positively engaged vulnerable youth for more than ten years. Fueled by his tireless enthusiasm, Mark is spearheading the 2010 Urban Games, a crime prevention strategy that will highlight the talents and pursuits of inner city youth.

Timothy Gillese

Timothy Gillese is a psychiatrist, contracted by the Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission (AADAC) for the past 20 years, with specialized knowledge and skills in the areas of substance abuse, addictions, and concurrent disorders. His innovative, non-judgmental, empathic, and compassionate approach to working with clients, many of whom are disempowered and destitute, is held in high regard by his colleagues, who also appreciate the professional mentorship that he provides them. Timothy’s colleagues are especially inspired by his unique ability to offer hope to clients. One colleague explains, “Dr. Gillese has compassion and a true understanding of how sexual exploitation impacts a person’s spirit”. Another describes, “The word hopeless does not exist for him. There are only opportunities for healing and for growth.”

Trevor Gladue

Trevor Gladue is a respected Métis leader in Edmonton, presently provincial vice-president of the Métis Nation of Alberta and founder of the "Métis Matters" magazine. He is noted to be a caring champion and gentleman to all people regardless of gender, race, or class with genuine concern for the rights and well being of all community members throughout the province. As a role model, he has demonstrated what it takes to be a steward of humanity by giving of his own time and energy to create positive outcomes, staying within the truth, and appreciating the wisdom of elders. He has overcome a number of personal difficulties and as a result, has empathy for others struggling to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Trevor has shown determination and perseverance in achieving personal goals. He actively participates in native spiritual and cultural traditions by attending sweats and ceremonies.

Rod Hammel

Rod Hammel works at the Bissell Thrift store. His responsibilities include delivering merchandise to customers. But, he delivers much more than items purchased at the Thrift store. Rod gives of himself to improve the lives of people who are recovering from addictions and who are dealing with other personal difficulties by giving them rides, finding them jobs, taking time to listen to them, taking a genuine interest in them, and helping them to believe in themselves. Thrift store customers admire Rod and describe him as patient, kind, non-judgmental, generous, empathic, and compassionate. In addition to all else that Rod does in the community, he has close and supportive family relationships and he is a caring “big brother” for one of his sisters who is disabled.

Dave Hill

Dave Hill is a lawyer with more than 20 years of experience in the Edmonton General Prosecutions Office. In recent years, he has focused his work in the area of Restorative Justice, serving as the Provincial Crown Prosecutor with the Edmonton Drug Treatment and Community Restoration Court (EDTCRC). As a recognized leader in the Restorative Justice field, Dave has worked with numerous boards, committees, and non-profit agencies to develop innovative strategies for addressing justice and safety issues. Currently, he is the Chairperson of the Edmonton Aboriginal Justice Committee and he has played a central role in the establishment of the Mental Health Specialty Court. Colleagues and participants in EDTCRC appreciate his wisdom, compassion, and sense of humour. Dave’s down-to-earth approach and his “ability to see the person rather than the criminal or addict” allow him to easily connect with and relate to people from all walks of life.

Craig MacTavish

Craig MacTavish played 17 years in the NHL including nine years with the Edmonton Oilers, where he was also Team Captain. After retiring in 1997, he began a career in coaching, returning to Edmonton in 1999 as Kevin Lowe's assistant before taking over the bench boss job the next season. In the face of relentless media coverage, he is always aware of his wife, his family, sports fans, and especially the young followers who may be watching. He has maintained a personal code of conduct that recognizes a greater audience. He sees his role in coaching and in life as a mentor, teacher, communicator, leader, and motivator. This has been a consistent message from contacts with minor hockey, corporate partners, local charities and coaching for Canada at international tournaments. Craig is described as a man of principle, caring for everyone around him the way he takes care of the Oilers. In the midst of all commitments, he is a concerned and caring parent of his daughter and two sons.

Robin Murray

Robin Murray is the Assistant Executive Director of the Edmonton John Howard Society, where he has worked in a variety of positions for the past 20 years. In addition, he has served on numerous committees and boards in the human services sector, including several United Way Committees, the Alberta Criminal Justice Association board, and currently the George Spady Centre board. Robin is also a dedicated, loving, and involved husband and father. He is passionately committed to inclusiveness so that all people have opportunities for improvement. In addition, he recognizes the necessity of collaborative partnerships and holistic approaches for achieving healthy and safe communities. Colleagues and friends value his sincerity, approachability, support, compassion, kindness, humour, and ability to motivate others.

Michael Phair

Michael Phair, first elected to city council in 1992, was Edmonton's first openly gay politician and proud to blaze the trail for others in the community. He continued to serve the City through Ward 4 for fifteen years and became recognized as a tireless and dedicated worker as well as Edmonton's most colorful councillor. Michael's continual advocacy for the poor and disadvantaged led to his designation as "council's social conscience." His philosophy was that the quality of all our lives would suffer if we do not pay attention to all members of society. He was also a long time supporter of the cultural community and pushed for the establishment of an arts council to support new funding for the arts. After his retirement from politics, the Michael Phair Leadership Award Endowment was established through the University of Alberta to provide an annual award to students with demonstrated leadership qualities committed to advancing the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered community.